A LOCAL politician has claimed it is "clear" that "so much more has to be done" to improve the representation of people with disabilities.

It comes after Paul O'Kane MSP was reflecting, ahead of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, on the recently defeated bill brought forward by his colleague, Pam Duncan Glancy, that aimed to improve the opportunities for disabled children and young people as they grow up.

On top of that, the local politician paid tribute to his Labour colleague, Pam, saying that she "embodies the determination that's required to smash the glass ceiling and the glass staircase" for people with disabilities.

Paul O'Kane said: “It’s obvious that the representation of people with disabilities is not where it should, so much more has to be done.

“As each International Day of Persons with Disabilities day approaches, I ask myself how much, if any, progress has been made in the previous 12 months for disability representation.

“The recent bill brought forward by my colleague was trying to address the lack of structure and support there is for young people with disabilities,  and despite its unfortunate defeat in Parliament, I know that Pam, myself and my Labour colleagues will be pushing for the delivery of a better system.

“It’s obvious that the representation of people with disabilities is not where it should, so much more has to be done, and it has to begin with removing the culture which makes people with disabilities feel like they have to fight for everything, including a smooth transition into adulthood and having long term ambitions for their lives.

“My colleague Pam embodies the determination that’s required to smash the glass ceiling and the glass staircase for people with disabilities, and she speaks on the issue with the most authentic voice.

“I hope that everyone who can will take a moment to reflect on Sunday about the challenges disabled people, their loved ones and families face."